Humanitarian needs rise in Lebanon
28 April 2026
Civilians across the Middle East are facing devastating humanitarian consequences from ongoing conflict. Red Cross Red Crescent teams continue to respond as humanitarian needs rise in Lebanon.
In Lebanon, recent large-scale airstrikes in densely populated areas have caused significant loss of life, widespread destruction, and forced more people to leave their homes. Many people have been forced to flee with little warning, while hospitals and essential services are under extreme pressure.
Across the country, the Lebanese Red Cross has mobilised volunteers and emergency teams at full capacity. Ambulances, search and rescue teams, and medical services are operating under immense pressure to support those affected.
At the same time, the International Committee of the Red Cross is supporting essential services such as water systems and health care, while the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies is coordinating wider humanitarian assistance.
Displacement is increasing rapidly, with many families living in crowded shelters or with host communities. In Lebanon, an estimated 1.17 million people have been displaced, with more than 140,000 sheltering across collective sites. While any pause in fighting brings some relief, it does not end humanitarian needs, and many people remain unable to return home or access essential services.
Despite the risks, Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers and staff remain on the frontlines delivering life-saving support.
New Zealand Red Cross stands alongside our Movement partners and supports their work through international emergency appeals.
You can help those affected by the ongoing conflict. Donate now to our appeal: Middle East Humanitarian Crisis Appeal | New Zealand Red Cross
More information
If you are in New Zealand and have lost contact with family members in affected areas, our Restoring Family Links service may be able to help you reconnect with your loved ones. Find out more and submit a tracing request: www.redcross.org.nz/RFL
Find out more about international humanitarian law and how these rules apply to armed conflicts: International humanitarian law
For more information about Movement activities in the Middle East see:
- IFRC dispatches critical medical supplies from Türkiye to support urgent needs in Iran; calls for scaled up support | IFRC
- IFRC strongly condemns the killing of Lebanese Red Cross paramedic Hasan Badawi, while on an ambulance mission | IFRC
- Lebanon: ICRC supporting life-saving medical services during hostilities | International Committee of the Red Cross
- Frequently asked questions: The ICRC's work in Iran | International Committee of the Red Cross
Lead photo: Lebanon Red Cross provides aid to people displaced by armed conflict.